Institution and Cafeteria Cook Salary in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee · 12.0% below national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $30,330 | -5.0% | High |
| Memphis | $26,818 | -16.0% | High |
Tennessee is home to a strong job market for Institution and Cafeteria Cooks. The state's key industries — Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $31,926 per year, Tennessee's Institution and Cafeteria Cook salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average.
The cost of living in Tennessee (index: 0.88) makes salaries stretch further than in higher-cost states. Entry-level professionals in Tennessee can expect to earn $22,598–$27,526, while experienced Institution and Cafeteria Cooks can command $38,614–$42,326.
Looking ahead, the Institution and Cafeteria Cook profession in Tennessee is projected to grow at 2.5% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Healthcare continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Institution and Cafeteria Cook salary in Tennessee?The average Institution and Cafeteria Cook salary in Tennessee is $31,926 per year in 2026, which is 12.0% below the national average of $36,280.
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What city in Tennessee pays Institution and Cafeteria Cooks the most?Major metro areas typically pay Institution and Cafeteria Cooks the highest wages in Tennessee due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is Tennessee a good state for Institution and Cafeteria Cooks?Tennessee has a strong job market with major industries in Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism. This makes it one of the better states for Institution and Cafeteria Cook employment.
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How does Tennessee Institution and Cafeteria Cook salary compare to the US average?At $31,926/year, Tennessee Institution and Cafeteria Cook salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average of $36,280/year.